Mushroom Veggie Burgers

If you’re looking for a tasty and hearty meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table, look no further than these Mushroom Veggie Burgers! This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it combines wholesome ingredients with rich flavors that even meat-lovers rave about. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a quick weeknight dinner, these burgers are perfect for any occasion. Plus, they’re easy to make ahead of time, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious flavor: The combination of mushrooms, beans, and spices creates a savory taste that’s hard to resist.
• Family-friendly: Even picky eaters will love these Mushroom Veggie Burgers! They’re satisfying and packed with nutrients.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prep the patties in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer for quick meals later on.
• Flexible cooking methods: Bake them for a healthier option or pan-sear for that crispy, charred exterior. Either way, they’re delicious!
• Nut-free and gluten-free options available: With simple substitutions, everyone can enjoy these burgers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have on hand. Gather these goodies to whip up some amazing Mushroom Veggie Burgers:

For the Burgers

• 1 small onion, chopped
• 16 ounces cremini (baby bella) mushrooms, sliced (or a blend of portobello, shiitake or cremini)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ cup raw walnut halves
• 1 ¼ cups cooked pearled barley (see Notes for subs)
• 1 cup cooked pinto or black beans (rinsed and drained)
• 1 Tablespoon nutritional yeast
• 2 Tablespoons vegan worcestershire sauce (see Notes)
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• black pepper

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily customize these Mushroom Veggie Burgers to suit your tastes!

• Swap the protein: Use lentils instead of beans for a different texture and flavor.
• Add some heat: Mix in chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Change the grains: Substitute quinoa or brown rice for barley if you prefer.
• Herb it up: Experiment with other herbs like oregano or basil to create unique flavor profiles.

How to Make Mushroom Veggie Burgers

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Preheat a large sauté pan over medium-low heat. Start by adding the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms. Cook them until the mushrooms release their liquid and it evaporates—about 15 minutes. This step is crucial because it concentrates all those wonderful flavors! Then, add in minced garlic, thyme, and smoked paprika. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Prepare Your Oven

While your veggies are cooking away, preheat your oven to 400° F (200° C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier!

Step 3: Process the Mixture

In the bowl of a food processor, pulse the raw walnuts until they’re coarsely crumbled. Next, add in your sautéed mushroom mixture along with cooked barley, beans, nutritional yeast, vegan worcestershire sauce, panko breadcrumbs, salt, and black pepper. Pulse until everything is well combined but still has some visible bits of beans and mushrooms—this adds great texture!

Step 4: Form Patties

Now it’s time to shape those patties! Using about half a cup of mixture per patty will yield around eight burgers. If you want an extra burst of flavor, brush each patty lightly with vegan worcestershire sauce and sprinkle some black pepper on top.

Step 5: Bake the Burgers

Place your formed veggie burgers on the prepared baking sheet. Bake them for about 30-35 minutes total—be sure to flip them halfway through so they get nice and golden brown on both sides.

Step 6: Pan-Sear Option

If you prefer that lovely charred crust on your burgers instead of baking them, preheat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat with two tablespoons of high-heat cooking oil. Add two or three burgers at a time (making sure not to overcrowd the pan) and cook for about five minutes per side until they are beautifully browned.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these mouthwatering Mushroom Veggie Burgers! Serve them up with your favorite toppings and enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Mushroom Veggie Burgers

Creating the perfect mushroom veggie burger is all about technique and a bit of creativity. Here are some tips to help you achieve delicious results every time!

• Sauté until dry: Ensure the mushrooms and onions are cooked until the moisture has evaporated. This prevents sogginess in your burgers and enhances the flavor.
• Don’t over-process: When blending your ingredients, pulse just enough to combine. Leaving small bits of beans and mushrooms adds texture to your burgers, making them more satisfying.
• Chill the patties: After forming the patties, refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape better while cooking, whether you choose to bake or pan-sear.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste! Adding different herbs or spices can make each batch unique and exciting.
• Customize your toppings: Get creative with your toppings! From avocado slices to spicy mustard, experimenting with different flavors can take your burger experience to the next level.

How to Serve Mushroom Veggie Burgers

Presenting mushroom veggie burgers is a delightful opportunity to showcase your culinary creativity! Here are some ideas on how to serve these tasty creations that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or cilantro sprinkled on top adds a vibrant touch and fresh flavor that complements the hearty burger.
• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado not only enhances the flavor but also adds a rich texture that pairs beautifully with the mushrooms.
• Pickles or jalapeños: For those who enjoy a bit of tang or heat, adding pickles or sliced jalapeños can elevate the taste profile of your burgers.

Side Dishes

• Sweet potato fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a sweet contrast and pair perfectly with the savory flavors of the veggie burger.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing adds freshness and crunch, making it an excellent side option.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing complement that balances out the meal.
• Grilled vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add color and nutrients while enhancing your outdoor dining experience.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to crafting delicious mushroom veggie burgers that everyone will love!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Mushroom Veggie Burgers are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch in advance, making it simple to enjoy delicious homemade burgers throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• After cooking, let the burgers cool completely.
• Store leftover veggie burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• To keep them fresh, place parchment paper between each burger to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Form and cook the patties as instructed.
• Allow them to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each burger tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated burgers, you can reheat them in a microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
• If frozen, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating or cook directly from frozen on medium heat in a skillet for about 5-7 minutes per side.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come up when making these Mushroom Veggie Burgers.

Can I make Mushroom Veggie Burgers nut-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute walnuts with sunflower seeds or omit nuts entirely. Just ensure the texture remains cohesive by adjusting other ingredients if necessary.

How do I add more flavor to my Mushroom Veggie Burgers?

Feel free to experiment with spices! Adding chili powder, cumin, or even fresh herbs like parsley can elevate your Mushroom Veggie Burgers. Don’t hesitate to tweak the seasonings to suit your taste!

What is the best way to cook Mushroom Veggie Burgers?

You can bake or pan-sear these Mushroom Veggie Burgers. Baking gives you an oil-free option while pan-searing adds a delicious charred flavor. Both methods yield fantastic results!

Can I grill these Mushroom Veggie Burgers?

Yes! These burgers hold together well on the grill. Just ensure they’re firm enough after baking or chilling before transferring them onto the grill grates.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Mushroom Veggie Burgers as much as I do! They not only satisfy your taste buds but also offer healthy goodness wrapped in a delicious package. Whether you’re grilling up for friends or just treating yourself on a weekday, these veggie burgers are sure to impress. Happy cooking!